Newtown

A staple neighborhood of central Johannesburg, Newtown has seen plenty of government funding in recent years to clean up its streets (both of trash and crime) and is reaping the benefits. Now a more safe and secure area in touch with its cultural underpinnings, Newtown is great for a night out, whether you want dance music, live jazz, classic pubs, or a tour of beer history.

The Market Theatre Complex is the main entertainment destination in Newtown, with its historic theater and a collection of eating and drinking establishments. Bassline and Town Hall are big music spaces, although the former tends more toward live instrumentation. The SAB World of Beer gives a tour of beer history as it has developed in Africa; quite interesting for those yet unacquainted. The Guild Hall Pub has the classic pub style down pat, and there are also a number of cafes scattered around Newtown if you need a quick kick of caffeine.

Location:Johannesburg

Note:If you're in Newtown during prime site-seeing hours, then be sure to check out Museum Africa and the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, both especially attractive to those of you traveling with kids.